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In May of 2014 I was invited to China, where Belinda the Ballerina is very popular. During my two-week stay, I gave lots of radio and newspaper interviews, did live webcases, and met with various groups of educators, art students, parents and children. I was a keynote speaker at the 2014 Beijing International Children’s Reading Forum, and I also participated in the 10th annual China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair, which was basically a huge expo. In addition to learning about my work, people wanted to know about literacy issues, such as the importance of reading to children from the time they are born (or before!), and the importance of developing curiosity and imagination. It was an amazing trip!

ON Wednesday, December 1st, Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital hosted a Donor Appreciation Night. It was a lovely affair. The highlight for me was when President Doctor Bob Connors presented my book to Helen DeVos. Up until that point, the book had been a bit of a secret. Here are a few pictures from the event.

WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY? was commissioned by Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital to honor Helen DeVos for the vision, kindness and generosity that made the hospital a reality. I was honored to be chosen to write and illustrate this book. The new hospital is amazing, and really worth seeing. The book will be available for purchase in the gift shop, but, just as exciting, it will also be at several computer stations, where you can click through it just for fun. I hope to see you there!

From Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital
Come and see a hospital built just for kids and families. On Saturday, December 4, 2010, doors will be wide open for the community preview of the new Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. To accommodate all of our visitors, we are scheduling self-guided tours. Please call 616.776.9626 to reserve your time. You are sure to hear a lot of “Oohs” and “Ahhs” when you see our kid-friendly spaces and innovative features.